Free Tip: Friday For you folks Subaru Just popped a new battery in it. it's the Legacy When you do this, typically the passenger side window won't work. I'll show you here which will probably work. Driver side works here Auto Express Feature doesn't put the passenger side window doesn't work, but if we come over here, it will.

So simple: retrain, push and hold your switch all the way down. Wait a couple seconds, pull it all the way up, wait a couple seconds. Express will work from over here. And now, technically it should work from over here and we can hear that it does up and down.

Yeehaw Do the same thing on the driver's side all the way up. hold and wait all the way down, holding weight. Boom. That's it.


100 thoughts on “Subaru: passenger window won’t work from driver switch”
  1. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars LaMar Benton says:

    I wish this same thing works on sideview mirrors bcuz it's another common issue

  2. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Scott Sullivan says:

    Will this happen on a 2013 Toyota Prius?

  3. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Anthony Hedger says:

    Does this work for all cars or just Subaru? I've had a similar issue in my '11 Acadia for years

  4. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars F G says:

    The same thing happened to me. This repair technique also works on a Toyota Avalon. Front and rear windows.

  5. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars 6 weeks ago • 35 years ago says:

    Is this a Subaru only thing?

  6. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Louis Badore says:

    Will that work for a 1996 Corvette

  7. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars PATRICK DINEEN says:

    Thanks for the tip Mr. O. I’ll never own a Subaru, but I have friends that do.👍

  8. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ryan Soit says:

    How long does somebody things by watching you videos? All, thanks to you.

  9. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Joe G says:

    Would a memory saver prevent this?

  10. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars paulparoma says:

    I don't like those plastic switches on modern cars. I don't like the look, I don't like the feel. Stupid regulations and cost-cutting measures.

  11. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jim H. says:

    That's why you make the big bucks my friend. 😁

  12. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Shawn says:

    No lie I had this problem in my 2015 Legacy after I had a new battery installed. Tried this out just now and it worked perfectly!!!!! Thank you so much, sir! I owe you an ice cream next time I’m up your way!! 🍦

  13. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Michael Del Rossi says:

    Now how do you get the ECU to Operate Correctly? It killed the New Battery the next day! Car now in the Shop??

  14. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jorge Tellez says:

    same as a 99 vw jetta i used to drive lol

  15. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Michael Maker says:

    Will that work on a Chevy Silverado?

  16. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars MrManuel1329 says:

    Brunt out a switch on a 2005 Honda CR-V held it down for 2 second and vise versa and eventually when I went to test the Auto function the switch decided to give out at that moment. This after a 4.0 hr job installing a alternator. Window switches are super common on those cars.

  17. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Henry Yurkovic says:

    Thank you. Now is there a way to keep dash screen to always work? I live in South Florida and just think it's the heat that affects it

  18. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matthew Canavan says:

    No way I don't believe it:)

  19. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Crypst0fer _ says:

    It's actually just all the way up. You can start it from any window position as long as you hold the switch for 5 seconds after it reaches the top.

  20. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars William Luecking says:

    Thank you so much! 🎉

    Every time I disconnect the battery this has pissed me off. This was so helpful, I’m glad I stumbled across it. Thanks again

  21. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matthew Holzinger says:

    I miss my simple cars from the 60's and 70's.

  22. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jason Thai-Kennedy says:

    F**king Subarus

  23. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lakes Automotive Diagnostics says:

    🔧💯🔧

  24. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars chickenfishhybrid44 says:

    I remember I first encountered something like this after replacing a battery in I believe a Lexus SUV about 10 years ago. Forgot it was even a thing.

  25. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars 82 KID says:

    I have a 2002 Subaru Legacy Outback 🙂

  26. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars 82 KID says:

    That's so weird!! It's like some kind of signal command

  27. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dzik420 says:

    Hondas and Acuras do the same thing

  28. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars George Galbraith says:

    Free Tip: Stay away from Subaru. It only identifies as a car.

  29. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Sam S says:

    I had this problem a few years ago, read up on the TSB and learned it myself. Programming has an issue when you replace the battery like you did.

  30. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike says:

    Pro tip from a Subaru employee in ny like myself. If one of your windows doesn’t work, it’s cuz I launched your window motor into a box from 20 feet away and it smashed into a strut mount that was in the box.

  31. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ted Hicks says:

    Will that work on 03 accord

  32. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Show Me What I Need To Know says:

    What a piece of crap!!!

  33. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jimmy Herring says:

    This is one more reason I love my old truck and cars

  34. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jake says:

    There is a class action suit regarding the battery drain issues in my 2017 legacy. Apparently it has been a huge issue for many owners. I have come to find my car dead for no reason a couple of times and had to do this to get the windows working. Mr subaru needs to do a short on this too!

  35. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars C Wilks says:

    Who else hates engineers. 😂

  36. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Greg Friesen says:

    Is that "re-training" the windows a Subaru thing, or might that work on my F150 with that exact condition?

  37. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Scott W says:

    If ever there is a source of aggravation in your life, there's ultimately 1 of 2 people responsible: a lawyer or a damn engineer

  38. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeff DeWitt says:

    Never had a problem like this on my Jeep. The wind up windows don't care about the battery… they even work with no battery!

  39. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars iFixJunk says:

    What a stupid "feature".

  40. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars D's Auto Repairs Dinges says:

    What actual gain to smart windows? It's like my memory seat setting just bounced out of the chat so you run it forward then back an its back again.

  41. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars jhon viel says:

    electronics were going to make our lives easier? lol

  42. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mjl says:

    The years of doing a simple repair in the driveway without needing to know these ancient Chinese secrets have long been gong. 😑🈶…..😬👍🇺🇸

  43. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Chuck CTS-V says:

    No one, "ever" reads the Owner's Manual. Many things are explained in it. Or, just search it on YouTube, usually you will find the answer there, save you a lot of money. Simple as that.

  44. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kelsy Cunningham says:

    There's absolutely no reason that electronic periphery such as window switches should stop working because of a battery change.

  45. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Doug Stout says:

    $500 at the dealer. Or stealer……

  46. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jason says:

    Retrain a switch….

    I do not like the world I live in.

  47. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Haley says:

    Tip: if it still doesn't work, hold the button down after you've rolled the window all the way down until you hear a faint click. Then roll the window up and hold it until you also hear the click. Then it'll work

  48. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars fredkuhn165 says:

    This guy is great, but Subaru sucks

  49. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mr Jay’s Garage says:

    Works on the older GM’s too. I just tried it with my 99 Jimmy and it worked.

  50. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bigfootlover69 says:

    Who else knows this. Theres your problem lady

  51. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars O’ Hell says:

    Been there and done that. Backdated subie to a better year. Thanks for posting. It was a tuff one to figure out 5 years ago

  52. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Lou Bakker says:

    What's the point of having this option ?

  53. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Krankie V says:

    And if it won't start or won't idle after replacing the battery, clean the throttle body. Subaru are pretty bad about that.

  54. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Matthew Yates says:

    my 2013 f250 6.7L is like this except it works from drivers side and not from passenger side. Wonder if this would work for me. I changed out passenger switch but didnt work,. hope this does haha

  55. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars SI Rich says:

    This is a tip that works on many cars. My son called me up and sad his window won't roll up. I asked does it go down? Yes. Ok roll it down and hold for a couple seconds……reset.

  56. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars william Rizzo says:

    I tried this on my 1992 Hugo, and it doesn't work! 😂

  57. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars jim jordan says:

    Does this trick also work with manual windows? Asking for a friend. 😂

  58. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Charles Tucker says:

    I had that problem with the my Outback. I found the fix on another youtube channel by doing a search for that.

  59. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John Kool says:

    same thing for 2011 toyota avalon

  60. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Donald Coder says:

    Same procedure works on Lexus RX. This message saved lots of money. Many thanks, Eric!

  61. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Nicki de Wet says:

    Same on my 2001 Opel Astra

  62. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kerry Gibbs says:

    Great tip for a stupid quirk. Thanks!!

  63. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars bob often says:

    Mitsubishi is the same
    Dodge will be too
    Ram
    Chrysler
    Honda I expect
    Mazda
    Basically any Japanese based vehicle manufacturer
    The windows have an auto function that stops the windows if it senses an obstacle
    Resetting the upper , top limit tells it , if it finds an obstacle….. retract .

  64. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jeff Scott says:

    So you unplug the battery of a Subaru and put a new one in and it turns the car retarded. Got it

  65. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Jay Kellett says:

    To retrain my Honda maintenance light after changing my oil, I have to go through a 5 step procedure from hell. They need a reboot procedure like Windows.

  66. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars WTF HaveIDone? says:

    Thank you, Eric! My daughter's Forester had this issue and it was going to the mechanic this week for that and an AC service this week. One less thing for the mechanic to do!

  67. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars BW says:

    Wow. That's some crazy stuff. Thanks for sharing.

  68. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars MYTKC66 Atbat says:

    Every time you video something I learn. Wrenching on cars in the 60s, I am a fossil, but still interested in the logical approach that you take to troubleshooting. My hope is that the upcoming generation of gearheads, if that can be said, will learn from you. No short cuts, no parts changing, just real skill and customer care. Thanks!

  69. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Fred Salter says:

    Will this work on manual crank windows?

  70. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike F says:

    One more reason there's not a lot to love about a Subaru

  71. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars TheOtherBarber says:

    Had to do this on my mom's 2006 Lexus too, including the moonroof. The auto closing/opening feature on the windows and moonroof are pretty nice though.

  72. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Adam Lynn says:

    How do u do that procedure on an 06 linclon zephyr

  73. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Craig Versheck says:

    Wow… hold up….
    You went down then up on the passenger first, but up then down on the driver side second? Is this the "proper" manufacturers recommend procedure??? Or is it ok if the procedure is reversed? 🤯… 😂
    Just teasing, but it almost seems like that's how critical the manufacturers seem to be these days 🙄🙄
    😂😂.
    Thanks again South Main, always love the vids and advice! 🤙

  74. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bryan Krall says:

    Eric O your “classic” automatic Windsor retrain procedure

  75. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars erg0centric says:

    But why, Subaru?

  76. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars HamBearDinger says:

    saab similar process with the anti pinch

  77. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Kevin Armknecht says:

    I appreciate the tip! I'll try to remember this for when I need it.

  78. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Wolfgang Salingre says:

    HA, that 'hold and wait' thingie works exactly the same way on my XK8 Jaguar conv.. Interesting that they use each others ideas or maybe even parts or chips!

  79. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars dnprall says:

    What's the point of having this happen with a new battery? Is a "bug" or a "feature"?

  80. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars miklemikemuster says:

    Free tip Friday on a Thursday! WOOHOO!

  81. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars tv says:

    Technology!!!!

  82. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars David Thomits says:

    Thank you great tip

  83. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars shakey says:

    The fact that we have to “retrain” windows after a battery replacement tells me something is over engineered.

  84. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars jcnikoley says:

    I learned this when I replaced my first regulator. 👍
    My windows tend to stick on hot days. If I don’t operate them regularly, they will become permanently stuck. I’ve done silicone sprays, and it works for a day or two, but then the spray seems to become tacky and make the problem worse. Is there something else I can use besides silicone?

  85. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John Mulhearn says:

    I have to keep reminding my Vette friends how to re-index their windows all the time.

  86. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars mundanestuff says:

    we've had a legacy sedan since 2013 and it's a champ, runs great, drives great, loads of room for adults in the car, lots of leg room front and rear. The only problem we've had is the window rubber getting in the way stopping the driver's side window from going up on hot days. Just treated it to all 4 corners brake job the other day along with some basic maintenance, and it's running and driving even better now. Hopefully the timing chain doesn't explode now that I've praised it so highly!

  87. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars david wharton says:

    Wondering?? Do you were ear plugs at night to retain all this info?? 😳😳🤭😂😂😂 ALWAYS good stuff Eric, you ROCK😎💪😎

  88. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Hola! Brennan Lukas says:

    never knew this, noticed this on my audi and vw products but never made the connection. now I know for next time. big thumbs up

  89. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Firedcylinder says:

    Addendum to free tip Friday: It's the same thing on Mazdas.

  90. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars salty 101 says:

    I would guess that is in the owners manual. People need to read their manual.

  91. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Dennis Waite says:

    Thank you, this tidbit saved me a lot of sorrow!

  92. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Juliet the Super Pug says:

    When I was a new tech I forgot to do this on a lexus, customer was pissed and thought I sabotaged her car.

  93. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Mike Abbitt says:

    Thanks Mr. O., I have a Subaru Crosstrek (aka Legacy Crossover Utility Vehicle) that I will have to do a battery replacement on within the next year or so. 👍

  94. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Bob Lemon says:

    I figured this out a few years ago when I changed the battery in my sons legacy, a google search or two and we found this procedure, found a few other cars over the years that have somewhat of the same issue.

  95. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Robert Heinkel says:

    Wierd

  96. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Ralph Sampson says:

    I hate new cars. The damn things practically themselves, now.

  97. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars keltecshooter says:

    There was a kid at CarMax got one of these Scooby's same issue .
    After replacing the master switch, destroying 2 lift motors with a power probe, found this solution in identafix ……

  98. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars John says:

    That’s awesome, thanks for sharing 😊

  99. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars ThePeopleVerse says:

    Yeah, but how the heck do you turn off the express up and down crap.
    My wife fusses all the time when trying to just crack the window down a little, and it races to wide open.

  100. Avataaar/Circle Created with python_avatars Olds Pwr says:

    My ? would be is why in the world would Subaru vehicles need to have this done when others do not.

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